Attractions and Places To See around Bigbury - Top 20

Bigbury is nestled within the South Devon National Landscape, offering a diverse range of natural beauty. You can explore sandy beaches like Bigbury Beach and the unspoilt South Sands Beach, known for its unique tractor ferry. The area also features the beautiful Avon Estuary, rich in wildlife, and woodlands such as Pithill Wood, which offers riverside trails along the River Erme. The iconic tidal causeway to Burgh Island is another unique natural feature.

Yes, Bigbury boasts several historical sites. The most prominent is Burgh Island, home to the famous Art Deco hotel and the historic Pilchard Inn, dating back to 1336. You can also visit St. Lawrence's Church in Bigbury village, which dates to the 11th century. For those interested in industrial history, the Red Lake Railway (Puffing Billy Track) is a former railway line used to transport materials to the Red Lake China Clay Works. Additionally, the Old Teahouse Ruin, an 18th-century belvedere, offers a glimpse into the past from a fantastic lookout spot on the South West Coast Path.

Bigbury is very family-friendly. Children will love exploring the extensive rock pools at Bigbury Beach and Hope Cove Beach at low tide. Pithill Wood offers picnic benches and spots to paddle in the River Erme. The unique sea tractor ride to Burgh Island at high tide is also a memorable experience. Many beaches, including South Sands Beach, have shallow waters perfect for paddling and building sandcastles.

The Bigbury area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various watersports like surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, especially at Bigbury Beach. Hiking is popular along the South West Coast Path, offering stunning views. For more structured routes, you can explore numerous trails. Find more options for hiking around Bigbury, cycling around Bigbury, and MTB trails around Bigbury.

Absolutely. Bigbury-on-Sea Beach is a main draw, featuring golden sands ideal for sunbathing and swimming in its shallow waters. South Sands Beach is another unspoilt option, sheltered from winds and perfect for relaxing. Hope Cove Beach also offers clear water suitable for swimming in a charming village setting. For a unique experience, the Mermaid Pool on Burgh Island provides a natural seawater bathing spot.

The South West Coast Path offers excellent walking opportunities with stunning coastal and estuary views. For a unique historical walk, consider the Red Lake Railway (Puffing Billy Track), a former railway line that provides a relatively gentle way to explore the moor. You can also find pleasant footpaths through woodlands like Pithill Wood alongside the River Erme. For specific routes, check out the hiking guide for Bigbury.

Burgh Island is famously accessible by walking across a sandy causeway at low tide. At high tide, a unique sea tractor transports visitors to and from the island, which is an attraction in itself. Always check tide times before planning your visit.

Yes, Bigbury is a rewarding destination for birdwatching. The Avon Estuary, which separates Bigbury from Bantham Beach, is particularly rich in wildlife and offers excellent opportunities to observe diverse avian life. The coastal paths and the South Devon National Landscape also provide habitats for various seabirds and other species.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the unspoilt beaches and coastal views. The unique experience of accessing Burgh Island via the tidal causeway or sea tractor is a highlight for many. The charming village atmosphere of places like Hope Cove Beach, with its cafes and ice cream outlets, is also very popular. Families appreciate the rock pooling opportunities and safe paddling spots.

Yes, there are options for food and drink. On Burgh Island, you'll find the historic Pilchard Inn. In Bigbury village and Bigbury-on-Sea, there are local establishments. Hope Cove Beach also has cafes and ice cream outlets nearby, perfect for a refreshment after exploring the beach.

The summer months (June to August) are popular for enjoying the beaches and watersports, though the area can be busy. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, ideal for hiking and exploring the coastal paths with fewer crowds. The unique tidal access to Burgh Island is available year-round, tide permitting. The South Devon National Landscape is beautiful in all seasons, with diverse wildlife to observe.

Yes, Bigbury Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with stunning views of the Avon Estuary and Bigbury Bay. It's a great option for golf enthusiasts looking to enjoy a round with picturesque scenery.